When Is Strength Training Rehabilitation Recommended for Patellar Tendinitis?

Patellar tendinitis, also called patellar tendinopathy or jumper’s knee, involves the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shin. Pain is often felt below the kneecap and may appear with squats, stairs, running, or jumping. Tendons usually respond better to a measured increase in load than to repeated cycles of complete rest and sudden return to sport. Rehabilitation also considers quadriceps strength, hip control, ankle movement, landing technique, and the total training load.

A physiotherapist may start with isometric quadriceps work or slow strengthening before introducing deeper squats, step-downs, hopping, and sport-specific drills. Keep movements controlled and track how the knee feels during the session and later that day. Reduce jumping, sprinting, or repeated deep knee bending temporarily if these sharply increase symptoms. Build back one demand at a time, with rest and technique practice between harder sessions. Learn more in the [Strength Training Rehabilitation](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/strength-training-rehabilitation/) guide.

Arrange an assessment if pain continues, limits stairs or sitting, or returns whenever activity increases. Seek prompt care after a sudden pop, major swelling, inability to straighten or bear weight, a visible change around the kneecap, fever, or new weakness. The [Patellar Tendinitis](/conditions/patellar-tendinitis/) page offers condition-specific information.

Ask which exercise level matches your current symptoms, when running or jumping can resume, and how to adjust training around work or sport. Ask how footwear, landing mechanics, hip strength, and recovery time may affect the knee’s load.